Diverse research areas. Professional development. A vibrant community in a thriving location. These are just a handful of factors that draw students from across the globe to Khalifa University. Specifically, to its College of Engineering and Physical Science and College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences known for its high-impact research and top-ranked programmes.
Its accolades say it all. Within the UAE, the university has remained #1 for six consecutive years, showcasing its excellence in STEM-focused research and teaching. According to the 2024 QS World University Rankings, the university was ranked #202 and #129 globally for engineering and technology, respectively; it’s also the top university in the UAE in these fields.
Programmes are equally prestigious – Petroleum Engineering is ranked eighth globally, and the Electrical and Electronics Engineering programme is #99. Other programmes such as Computer Science and Information Systems, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Chemical Engineering, Civil and Structural Engineering, and Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering are within the top #150-200.
“Khalifa University is where ambition meets opportunity,” says faculty member Dr. Yusra Abdulrahman. “With its world-class facilities, dynamic research ecosystem, and global outlook, the university empowers students to transform their aspirations into reality. As a faculty member, I strive to inspire the next generation of innovators, helping them push boundaries, tackle real-world challenges, and leave a lasting impact on society.”
The backdrop for this setting? Amazing Abu Dhabi, the country’s capital, ranked the safest city in the world. You’ll be part of a vibrant innovation hub within this thriving metropolis, home to world-class infrastructure and cutting-edge industries. As a Khalifa University student, you’ll have access to many opportunities within one of the region’s most diverse economies.
The College of Engineering and Physical Sciences is home to 400 graduate students and 130 dedicated researchers and staff. Source: Khalifa University
A research powerhouse
Joining the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences means taking on research opportunities at one of the top research institutions in the region. The university is a global leader in driving innovation through research commercialisation, addressing critical challenges through cutting-edge facilities and specialised centres.
One standout is its distinguished Office of Technology Management & Innovation. Here, students, faculty, and researchers work to transform groundbreaking discoveries into impactful business ventures, fostering startups and industry collaborations in areas such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and more.
Other state-of-the-art facilities include the Geomechanics Laboratory, Electrochemistry Laboratory, and Masdar Institute Solar Platform. All provide unparalleled resources for groundbreaking research. Here, students and researchers can contribute to fields such as energy diversification, climate adaptation, and materials science, making Khalifa University an ideal destination for those seeking to lead in science and innovation.
Their end goal is global impact. From advancing next-generation wireless connectivity at the 6G Research Centre to pioneering clean energy and decarbonisation at Research & Innovation Center on CO2 and Hydrogen (RICH) and developing sustainable water solutions at Center for Membranes and Advanced Water Technology (CMAT), the university’s many research centres drive progress across disciplines. You’ll shape the future, working alongside like-minded experts to advance research in AI, cybersecurity, biotechnology, energy systems, and more.
The result? Major contributions to important fields. The university plays a key role in the UAE’s national research agenda, bolstering its global reputation in sustainability, healthcare innovation, energy, and more. Notable achievements include over 300 patents, over 700 invention disclosures, over 8,045 research articles, and over 4,480 conference papers, with 35% of publications ranked in the top 10% of scientific journals and more than 101,000 citations.
Khalifa University’s PhD in Engineering stands out for its applied research, career support, and diverse learning environment. Source: Khalifa University
Excellent industry links, real-world impact
Two things stand out while pursuing a doctoral degree here. The college ensures that students receive the best possible education and career support through robust connections with industry partners, as well as tailored career support. The Career Services Office collaborates with leading companies to provide students with practical exposure to market demands through industrial visits, experiential learning courses, and a Career Guidance Programme.
These connections have taken students far. Khalifa University’s global network of over 50 academic and industry partnerships further enhances research and innovation capabilities – you will collaborate with top institutions such as MIT, Tsinghua University, and Georgia Tech, taking on internships, exchange programmes, and joint research opportunities. Partnerships with industry leaders such as Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, Boeing, and Emirates Global Aluminium focus on solving real-world challenges in sectors like aerospace, healthcare, and energy.
“Khalifa University was more than just a place of learning — it was home,” says Noor Hazim Hussein, a graduate student. “The Mathematics Department faculty prepared me for scientific research while giving me unique opportunities that shaped my journey.”
To welcome more talented individuals, the university has a comprehensive range of scholarships catered towards international students. You can apply for one of its full PhD scholarships that will cover tuition as well as provide generous stipends, accommodation, and even medical insurance. Notably, the China Scholarship Council – Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship provide additional benefits for Chinese students like mobilisation flights, study materials, and support to join international conferences.
Such support have turned many students into success stories with some, like faculty member Lilas Alrahis, even finding their way back to Khalifa University. She is an Assistant Professor in Computer and Information Engineering and specialises in hardware security, design-for-trust, and applied machine learning.
“What a privilege to now be an assistant professor at my alma mater, Khalifa University, teaching in the same classrooms where I once studied,” she says.
